After six years of service, Kathryn Hazlewood has stepped down from her role as Co-Chair Tangata Tiriti on the ACE Aotearoa Board, leaving behind a legacy of leadership, integrity, and a deep commitment to lifelong learning. Kathryn’s journey with the Adult and Community Education (ACE) sector began in 2015, when she managed the Adult Community Education Aotearoa contract during her time at the Tertiary Education Commission. From the beginning, she was drawn to the heart of the sector, its people, and its power to create change.
“I was drawn to the ACE sector straight away,” Kathryn reflects. “It’s a sector where I could see the potential to make the most significant positive change for individuals, whānau, and communities.”
A pivotal moment in her journey came when she attended the Hui Fono in Ahipara, at the invitation of Analiese Robertson. “Being part of that event was a game-changer,” she says. “It helped me develop a fuller, more grounded understanding of the ACE sector and its people.”
When Kathryn later moved on from TEC, her connection to ACE remained strong. In 2019, she was elected to the ACE Aotearoa Board, an opportunity that allowed her to continue contributing to a sector she felt deeply aligned with. “It has been a wonderful board to be part of, a board filled with heart, with people truly at the centre.”
Over her tenure, Kathryn worked alongside three directors, Colin McGregor, Analiese Robertson, and Hannah Pia Baral, each bringing unique strengths and perspectives to the organisation. She describes this as a time of growth and evolution, where leadership was shared, and values remained at the forefront.
Kathryn’s Co-Chair Tangata Whenua, Jay Rupapera, offered this tribute to Kathryn’s leadership:
“The time Kathryn and I spent together as Co-Chairs was about valuing each other’s strengths, weaknesses, and experiences. We complemented each other so well, always patient, humble, and supportive. Kathryn brought a real sense of integrity and balance to the organisation. I want to extend a heartfelt thanks to Kathryn for her leadership and lasting impact.”
That partnership was a defining feature of Kathryn’s time on the Board. Together, Jay and Kathryn modelled what it means to lead a Tiriti-based organisation, one that honours the principles of partnership.
“Working alongside Jay and the board has been a privilege,” Kathryn says. “It’s a relationship built on mutual respect, partnership, and trust that extended around the board table.” Kathryn acknowledges with gratitude all the board members she’s worked with over the past six years, their aroha, passion, and shared commitment to the ACE sector have been a constant source of inspiration.
Kathryn says she steps back with a sense of pride and is optimistic about the future for ACE. “After six years, it felt like the right time to step aside and make space for others. The board is in a very strong position, with an experienced and capable leader in Hannah, who is working alongside the board and sector to position the organisation well in the current political and economic context. I’m proud to be an ACE lifelong learner and I will always feel connected to the sector and look forward to watching the movement continue to grow.”